Road Tripping Through Pennsylvania: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks
Nothing beats a road trip when you're looking to explore new places and make unforgettable memories. And what better way to do it than by taking a trip from Buckingham Township, Pennsylvania to Delaware Township, Pennsylvania? This journey is one that promises to showcase the best of Pennsylvania's museums, parks, and landmarks--all you need is a great playlist, a camera, and an adventurous spirit.
Fun fact: Pennsylvania is home to the most extensive covered bridge network in the US, with over 200 remaining structures.
Halfway through this trip, you'll reach Stockertown, PA, a town that is home to the famous Lafayette College. This private liberal arts college was founded in 1826 and has produced notable alumni, including US Senator Chris Van Hollen, Pulitzer Prize-winning author James A. Michener, and former NBA player and coach, Fran Dunphy.
The journey from Buckingham Township to Delaware Township is approximately 54 miles and takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes if you take the I-95 S route. However, we recommend taking the scenic route through US-202 S and PA-32 S, which is approximately 70 miles and takes around 2 hours.
Here are the top five places to stop and visit along the way:
- Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve is situated only a few minutes from Buckingham Township. It is a botanical garden dedicated to the conservation and appreciation of native flora. The preserve spans over 100 acres, with numerous walking trails and various habitats, making it an excellent place to stop and enjoy nature's beauty. Visitors can take self-guided tours or opt for guided tours between the months of January and December.
Point of interest: Be sure to check out the Historic Windmill while on the tour. Built in 2001, this 24ft tall windmill is a replica of the mills that once used to dot the countryside.
- Washington Crossing State Park Washington Crossing State Park is located in Upper Makefield Township and offers stunning views of the Delaware River and the historic sections of Pennsylvania's Washington Crossing. The park is famous for being the place where George Washington and his army landed on December 25, 1776, to surprise the British forces in Trenton. Visitors can take a stroll along the picturesque trail that runs across the park's 500-acre expanse, or go fishing and boating in the Delaware River.
Point of interest: The park's nature center is home to various exhibits and interactive displays that detail the area's rich history.
- The Museum of Indian Culture The Museum of Indian Culture is situated in Allentown and offers visitors insights into the culture and everyday life of Native Americans. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts covering over 10,000 years of Native American cultural history, making it a great place to learn about the culture that dominated the region before the arrival of Europeans. Visitors can also participate in various workshops and educational programs.
Point of interest: Check out the handmade Navajo rug in the museum's exhibit hall. This unique masterpiece was woven using more than 900,000 threads and took years to complete.
- The Moravian Tile Works The Moravian Tile Works is situated in Doylestown and is a National Historic Landmark that features exquisite hand-made ceramic tiles. It was established in 1898 by Henry Mercer, who was a renowned artist and archeologist. Visitors can take a guided tour that will showcase the entire tile making process from clay extraction, molding, and decoration.
Point of interest: The tile works' shop sells beautiful handmade ceramics and souvenirs that are sure to make great gifts.
- The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park is located in New Jersey and is an excellent place to stop and enjoy nature. The park features numerous walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the canal, which stretches over 70 miles, and was once used by barges to transport goods between New York and Philadelphia in the 1800s.
Point of interest: Be sure to check out the amphitheater at Washington Crossing State Park within the park. It is an excellent place for a picnic or to catch a local play or event.
In conclusion, this road trip is a dream come true for anyone looking to explore Pennsylvania's museums, parks, and landmarks. With less than a hundred miles to cover, this trip is a perfect weekend getaway or day trip for those who want to escape the city rush. Don't forget to take plenty of pictures, pack some snacks, and enjoy every moment of your scenic drive.